Branch Out Dallas promotes environmental awareness and cooler urban spaces, the city gives away trees for free until Sep. 30
Dallas, Texas – Dallas is buzzing with the spirit of green growth as it kicks off the fifth installment of the “Branch Out” tree giveaway program. This project is a call to action for neighbors to plant and care for trees in their own yards, therefore improving the visual appeal of the city and promoting an environmentally friendly community. Dallas residents are invited to register for a free five-gallon tree through the city’s dedicated website until September 30, or until supplies run out.
Starting in 2018, the “Branch Out” program—a result of the city’s forestry initiatives—has been increasingly popular among Dallas residents willing to help to create a better surroundings. The program is timed to coincide with Dallas Arbor Day, November 4, when registered participants will pick their trees from one of six approved sites around the city.
Participants can choose from a variety of six tree types, each selected for their resilience and compatibility with the regional climate. The choices include bur oak, sycamore, American elm, Shumard oak, Mexican plum, and lacebark elm. These species are well-known for their resilience and advantages, which go much beyond simple beauty to greatly improve the quality of metropolitan surroundings.
“Branch Out Dallas supports citywide initiatives and has been well received by the community,” said Sarah Standifer, interim director of Dallas Water Utilities, as reported by People Newspapers. “Trees reduce the amount of stormwater runoff to drainage systems, help cool temperatures, improve air quality and mitigate the heat island effect.”
The initiative not only improves the area but also makes neighbors responsible and part of a community.
The city expects to distribute more than 2,500 free trees this year, evidence of the effectiveness of the initiative and the growing environmental awareness among the people. Reflecting a great collaborative spirit in urban conservation initiatives, the distribution procedure is a community effort backed by Dallas Forestry team and assisted by many local volunteers and partners.
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“This program supports city initiatives,” said Karen Woodard, Forestry Manager, Dallas Water Utilities. “We appreciate our residents and volunteers who understand the value of planting more trees.”
She underlined that every new tree planted moves Dallas closer to lowering urban heat and improving air quality – vital elements in the sustainability aims of the city.
“Branch Out Dallas” fits more general local initiatives to increase the urban tree canopy, which is crucial for improving residents’ quality of life by cooling metropolitan areas, lowering energy consumption, and increasing public health through better air quality. The program also offers an educational platform for residents to learn about the benefits of urban forestry and participate actively in neighborhood beautification.
The official Branch Out Dallas website allows interested individuals to register for their free tree and obtain further information. Dallas’s continuous dedication to urban sustainability and community well-being depends much on this initiative, which makes the city a rich, more breathable place for all its residents.
